Fish Culture

State fish culture stations (hatcheries) stock close to 2 million fish annually in public waters for angling and fish restoration.

In addition to stocking fish for public waters, Vermont fish hatcheries:

Support the Children's Fishing Program, which partners with almost 70 organizations statewide annually to provide more than 6,000 children, as well as elderly and challenged individuals an opportunity to experience and learn about fishing.

Provide destination sites for between 15,000 to 20,000 visitors annually.

Support the fish health program and its laboratory. The fish health program works to prevent the introduction of exotic fish species and pathogens, and control and limit the distribution of existing pathogens to the waters of the state through actual fish diagnostic work and numerous permitting programs (e.g., importation, propagation, and so on.).

Participate in the Cooperative Nursery Program. This program involves sports groups directly by providing fish to enhance Department fishing programs. This program provides almost 100,000 fish weighing approximately 6,000 pounds, while promoting mutual understanding. Currently there are five groups participating.

For more information about the role of fish hatcheries in Vermont or to visit one near you, see Visit a Hatchery.